Sutures and Wound Repair/ General Surgery (ABSA) Practice Test

What causes dumping syndrome after gastric resection?

1. Increased production of gastric acid

2. Rapid entry of food into the jejunum

3. Delayed stomach emptying

4. Excessive intake of fluids

The correct answer is: Rapid entry of food into the jejunum

Dumping syndrome is a condition that commonly occurs after gastric surgery, particularly procedures like gastric bypass or partial gastrectomy. It is primarily caused by the rapid entry of food, particularly high-carbohydrate foods, into the jejunum. Following gastric resection, the normal regulation of gastric emptying is altered. This rapid influx of food leads to an osmotic shift of fluid into the small intestine, resulting in symptoms such as diarrhea, cramping, and even cardiovascular changes like tachycardia and sweating. This phenomenon occurs because the stomach is no longer able to break down food as it should, leading to a smaller, more concentrated amount of food being delivered quickly to the duodenum and jejunum, overwhelming their capacity to absorb nutrients and fluids adequately. In contrast, increased production of gastric acid and delayed stomach emptying are not primary contributors to dumping syndrome. While excessive fluid intake can exacerbate the symptoms, it does not directly cause the syndrome itself. Therefore, the rapid entry of food into the jejunum is the correct answer, as it directly describes the mechanism that leads to the symptoms associated with dumping syndrome.